“It’s been totally devastating for the whole of our family and friends.

“No matter what sentence Shaw receives it will never be enough for the loss our family feel.

“Leigh’s life was tragically taken away from us. Leigh cannot live the full life he deserved all because of the actions of Simon Shaw.”

Investigations showed that Shaw was driving dangerously before crossing onto the wrong side of the road where he collided with an oncoming car. He was also found to be over the drink drive limit and also had cocaine in his system.

As part of his punishment, Shaw was also banned from driving for 10 years.

A forensic scientist proved that Shaw was around two and half times over the drink-drive limit at the time of the collision.

Detective Constable Seamus Burns from the serious collision investigation unit said: “This incident goes to show the devastating consequences of driving while under the influence of drink and drugs.

“It has devastated Leigh’s family who will be reminded of the consequences of Shaw’s actions on a daily basis.

“The case highlights the dangers drivers put themselves and other road users in when they believe they are safe to drink and drive.

“Shaw was only intending to drive a few miles from the pub to his home address. He knew he was over the drink drive limit but still decided to take the deadly risk.”